Townsend, Scheurer prepared for seat on board

Sandi Townsend and Sheri Scheurer took their place among fellow members of the Ionia Public Schools Board of Education at a work session Monday.

The pair were elected as new board members in November, alongside returning member Karen Balice-Gregory. They will swear in and become official members at the Jan. 21 meeting, but both said they are looking forward to their new positions in the district.

"I'm excited. I think it's going to be great," said Scheurer.

Townsend agreed, adding she feels confident with her new task.

"I'm going to work very hard and I'm open to information," said Townsend.

To prepare for the beginning of their six-year terms, both said they are researching board policies and other documents to be sure they are knowledgeable and abide by the rules.

Townsend and Scheurer said they both have a number of goals they would like to help the board accomplish this year.

"I'm looking forward to working with the board to resolve hard issues," Townsend said, adding she wishes the board to work on a more unified front.

In addition, Townsend said she wants to help students develop the best education possible at IPS because she believes the children are the future.

"I want us to be one of the best districts," she added.

Scheurer said she is focused on settling the teacher contract and making IPS schools the schools of choice for students around the county.

"We have an amazing facility and teachers," Scheurer said. "It's all in nurturing the need."

She added she will also become present at more school and community events, and wants to communicate with people and answer their questions outside of the board room.